UAB's Jamarcus Nelson leads Conference USA in receiving yards per game with a 120.5 receiving yards per contest.

Sept. 17, 2013

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The UAB football team spent roughly two hours at the practice field on Tuesday as the Blazers prepare for the 2013 home opener against Northwestern (La.) State.

Following Tuesday's workout, UAB offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Richard Owens spoke with media about what his offensive unit will see from the Demon defense.

"They are a team that is going to get after you," Owens said. "They put pressure on you as an offense and I think they are going to come in and compete. It is going to be a battle."

Owens also discussed the UAB wide receivers and their success so far this season. The Blazers' receiving corps is led by junior Jamarcus Nelson, who leads Conference USA in receiving yards per game (120.5 avg.) kickoff returns (35.4 avg.) and all-purpose yards per game (210.0).

UAB freshman wideout Jamari Staples has also had a strong start to his Blazer career. The Lineville, Ala., native is second on the team in receptions (8) and receiving yards (147).

"Our goal is to keep developing depth and find out who the playmakers are," Owens added. "Each week is a new week, so who is going to step up when the time comes?"

Kickoff between the Blazers and Demons is set for 2 p.m. CT Saturday. For ticket information, contact the UAB Athletic Ticket Office at (205) 975-8221.

For more information on the UAB football team, follow the Blazers on Twitter (@UABAthletics) or log on to www.UABSports.com.